Work to repair historic A76 Whitehill Bridge

The category B-listed Whitehill Bridge was constructed in 1825

Masonry work to repair a historic bridge in Dumfries and Galloway, damaged during the recent freezing weather, is to begin next month.

The category B-listed Whitehill Bridge, known locally as Crawick Bridge, forms part of the A76 and will be closed for three weekends from 4 March.

Transport Scotland said the work on the sandstone structure, built in 1825, would conserve it for the future.

The organisation said "significant diversions" would be put in place.

They are spending £50,000 to remove then rebuild stone damaged by frost in November and December.

Ken Bryden, network area manager at Amey's Dumfries depot, said: "Not only is Whitehill Bridge an important part of the heritage of Dumfries and Galloway, it also serves as part of the main artery between Dumfries and Kilmarnock.

"As such, it is not just a case of maintaining the road surface; we also have a duty to preserve the original sandstone."

Work is due to begin on the bridge between 4-7 March, 11-14 March and 18-21 March.

Motorists who normally use the route will be diverted via the Enterkinfoot and the A70 at Happendon.